January 2010
The following reviews, interviews and features are running on FaithfulReader.com for the month of January.
Faithful Fiction
SAVING CICADAS by Nicole Seitz (Fiction)
When single mother Priscilla Lynn Macy learns she's having another child unexpectedly, she packs the family into the car to escape. Eight-year-old Janie and Rainey Dae, her 17-year-old sister with special needs, embark on the last family vacation they'll ever take with Poppy and Grandma Mona in the back seat. The trip seems aimless until Janie realizes they are searching for the father who left them years ago. Reviewed by Marcia Ford.
WHITE PICKET FENCES by Susan Meissner (Fiction)
The disappearance of Bart Bachmann necessitates the placement of his daughter, Tally, into the home of her aunt and uncle. Though he loves her, his own life is a kind of fleeting and shallow existence, and the Janviers represent the exact opposite of everything that is Tally’s father. They seem to live life under the mottos of responsibility, constancy and, above all, a focus on family. But Tally soon discovers that appearances can be deceiving when their secrets threaten to destroy everything that really matters to them. Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
THE SILENT GIFT by Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelly (Historical Fiction)
The decade of the ’30s was a time of enormous uncertainty…for the world, for America and in particular for one lonely, struggling mother and her disabled son. Their story is one of unyielding love and incredible sacrifices in the face of circumstances beyond belief.Reviewed by Maggie Harding.
THE COUNTRY HOUSE COURTSHIP: A Regency Inspirational Romance, by Linore Rose Burkard (Historical Romance)
Seventeen-year-old Beatrice Forsythe knows exactly what she wants and just how to get it. In the early 1800s, marrying a man of high society is a surefire way for a young woman to have a large house, servants, fancy dresses and fine food. Her sister Ariana did it, so there is no reason Beatrice can’t have it all too. True, Ariana and the Paragon, Mr. Mornay, married for love, but Beatrice is not convinced that element is necessary if the rest of the package is in place. Until a certain clergyman enters the picture. Reviewed by Susan Miura.
Christian Living
PRIMAL: A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity, by Mark Batterson (Christian Living)
What would your Christianity look like if it was stripped down to the simplest, rawest, purest faith possible? You would have more, not less. You would have the beginning of a new reformation --- in your generation, your church, your own soul. You would have primal Christianity. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
WHEN YOU NEED A MIRACLE: Stories to Give You Faith and Bring You Hope, by Ann Spangler (Devotional)
When life is challenging, each of you can benefit from a daily dose of hope and faith. That’s what this devotional will bring you --- stories of miracles and angels drawn directly from Scripture and from the lives of ordinary people today. Story after story will help you to remember that God is in control and that He still loves you. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
A YEAR WITH GOD: Living Out the Spiritual Disciplines, edited by Richard J. Foster and Julia L. Roller (Devotional)
Many people are longing to find the footprint of God in their daily lives. This beautiful daily companion is comprised of 365 selections of scripture, commentary, meditations and daily exercises to help readers see how they can bring their entire life into a life with Immanuel --- a God who is with His people. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
THE REASON FOR GOD: Belief in an Age of Skepticism, by Timothy Keller (Christian Living)
Drawing insights from literature, philosophy and pop culture, say nothing of theology, Timothy Keller undergirds his persuasive, intellectually-based reasons for a belief in God, even as he draws upon his many valuable conversations with doubters he has encountered as a pastor in Manhattan. Reviewed by Evelyn Bence.
Marriage and Family Life
BECOMING YOUR SPOUSE’S BETTER HALF: Why Differences Make a Marriage Great, by Rick Johnson (Love & Marriage)
Having a successful marriage is not about finding the perfect person. It's not even about always getting along. It's about loving the imperfect person you married in an unselfish manner. In this witty and insightful book, Rick Johnson shows you how to go beyond merely tolerating your spouse's differences to using them to add spice and passion to your relationship. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Author Talk
Julie Klassen
Julie Klassen is the award-winning author LADY OF MILKWEED MANOR, THE APOTHECARY'S DAUGHTER and the newly released THE SILENT GOVERNESS. In this interview, Klassen traces her love of British literature --- as well as her fascination with English governesses --- all the way back to a sixth-grade reading of JANE EYRE and explains how she found the perfect setting for her latest book in the countryside. She also compares and contrasts the heroines of her three novels and pinpoints what she hopes readers will take away from her work.
Special Contest and Feature
THE COURTEOUS CAD Contest
We are celebrating the release of THE COURTEOUS CAD --- a story of love and class in feudal England --- with a special contest. Ten readers will have the opportunity to each win a copy of the book, which is the third installment in Catherine Palmer’s Miss Pickworth series.
THE COURTEOUS CAD: Miss Pickworth, Book 3 by Catherine Palmer (Historical Romance)
On her tour of the English countryside, a chance encounter in the streets alerts Miss Prudence Watson to the inhumane working conditions at the worsted mill. She learns that the owner is William Sherbourne, a Royal Naval officer just returned from sea. Following in his wake is his reputation as a cad and a secret so ghastly he’ll do anything to protect it. Even worse, he’s handsome and charming and not at all the villain Prudence expected him to be.
- Click here to see the study guide for THE COURTEOUS CAD.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE COURTEOUS CAD.
- Click here to read Catherine Palmer’s bio.
THICKER THAN BLOOD Contest
We are celebrating the release of THICKER THAN BLOOD --- a mystery in which an antiquarian book buyer is forced to confront her past --- with a special contest. Ten readers will have the opportunity to each win a copy of the book, which is C.J. Darlington’s debut novel.
THICKER THAN BLOOD by C.J. Darlington (Fiction)
Christy Williams finally has her life on track. She’s putting her past behind her and working hard to build a career as an antiquarian book buyer. But things begin to unravel when a stolen Hemingway first edition is found in her possession, framing her for a crime she didn’t commit. With no one to turn to, she yearns for her estranged younger sister, May, whom she abandoned after their parents’ untimely deaths. Soon, Christy’s fleeing from her shattered dreams, her ex-boyfriend, and God. Could May’s Triple Cross Ranch be the safe haven she’s searching for? Will the sisters realize that each possesses what the other desperately needs before it’s too late?
- Click here to see the study guide for THICKER THAN BLOOD.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THICKER THAN BLOOD.
- Click here to read C.J. Darlington’s bio.
- Visit C.J. Darlington’s official website, www.CJDarlington.com.
Study Guides
THE CHOICE: Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1 by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Romance)
One moment Carrie Weaver was happily looking forward to running away with Lancaster Barnstormers pitcher Solomon Riehl --- plans that included leaving the Amish community where they grew up. The next, she was staring into a future as broken as her heart. Now, Carrie is faced with a choice. But will this opportunity be all she hoped? Or will this decision, this moment in time, change her life forever?
- Click here to read more about THE CHOICE.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE CHOICE.
- Click here to read Suzanne Woods Fisher’s bio.
THE SILENT GOVERNESS by Julie Klassen (Historical Romance)
Olivia Keene is fleeing her own secret. She never intended to overhear his. But now that she has, what is Lord Bradley to do with her? He cannot let her go, for were the truth to get out, he would lose everything --- his reputation, his inheritance, his very home. He gives Miss Keene little choice but to accept a post at Brightwell Court, where he can make certain she does not spread what she heard. Keeping an eye on the young woman as she cares for the children, he finds himself drawn to her, even as he struggles against the growing attraction. The clever Miss Keene is definitely hiding something.
- Click here to read more about THE SILENT GOVERNESS.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE SILENT GOVERNESS.
- Click here to read an interview with Julie Klassen.
- Click here to read Julie Klassen’s bio.
THIRD TIME’S A CHARM: Sister-to-Sister Series, Book 3 by Virginia Smith (Romance)
Tori Sanderson has the professional opportunity of a lifetime. If she can prove she’s executive material, she’s in line for a big promotion. But there’s only room for one new account executive, and her co-worker has his eye on the job…and on Tori. How can she consider romance when she couldn’t hold on to the one man who was supposed to love her forever --- her own father? The time has come for answers, and Tori decides to search for the father who deserted her 12 years ago. Will she find the answers she craves? And will she ever be able to love again?
- Click here to read more about THIRD TIME’S A CHARM.
- Click here to read Virginia Smith’s bio.
SWINGING ON A STAR: Weddings by Bella, Book Two by Janice Thompson (Romance)
Bella Rossi’s life is nearing perfection. Not only does she have the perfect guy, but she’s also running a successful wedding-planning business and is about to plan its most ambitious wedding yet --- a Renaissance-themed fairy tale come true, complete with period costumes and foods, horse-drawn carriages, and even a castle. There’s only one hitch. The best man just happens to be Hollywood’s hottest and most eligible bachelor, and he’s showing an interest in Bella. Oh, and did we mention he’s staying at her house to avoid the paparazzi?
- Click here to read more about SWINGING ON A STAR.
- Click here to read Janice Thompson’s bio.
JENNA’S COWBOY: The Callahans of Texas, Book 1 by Sharon Gillenwater (Romance)
Jenna Callahan Colby thought she was content. A partner on her father’s successful ranch, she is surrounded by family and friends. But she never expected to see Nate Langley back in town --- the first guy she ever noticed, the one her father sent away all those years ago. And she never thought the attraction they felt would be as strong as ever.
- Click here to read more about JENNA’S COWBOY.
- Click here to read an excerpt from JENNA’S COWBOY.
- Click here to read Sharon Gillenwater’s bio.
Don’t Miss
THE BOOK OF GENESIS ILLUSTRATED written and illustrated by R. Crumb (Graphic Novel)
Envisioning the first book of the Bible like no one before him, R. Crumb, the legendary illustrator, reveals the story of Genesis in a profoundly honest and deeply moving way. Originally thinking he would do a takeoff of Adam and Eve, Crumb became so fascinated by the Bible’s language that he decided instead to do a literal interpretation using the text word for word in a version primarily assembled from the translations of Robert Alter and the King James Bible. Reviewed by John Hogan.
Click here to read the full newsletter.
Faithful Fiction
SAVING CICADAS by Nicole Seitz (Fiction)
When single mother Priscilla Lynn Macy learns she's having another child unexpectedly, she packs the family into the car to escape. Eight-year-old Janie and Rainey Dae, her 17-year-old sister with special needs, embark on the last family vacation they'll ever take with Poppy and Grandma Mona in the back seat. The trip seems aimless until Janie realizes they are searching for the father who left them years ago. Reviewed by Marcia Ford.
WHITE PICKET FENCES by Susan Meissner (Fiction)
The disappearance of Bart Bachmann necessitates the placement of his daughter, Tally, into the home of her aunt and uncle. Though he loves her, his own life is a kind of fleeting and shallow existence, and the Janviers represent the exact opposite of everything that is Tally’s father. They seem to live life under the mottos of responsibility, constancy and, above all, a focus on family. But Tally soon discovers that appearances can be deceiving when their secrets threaten to destroy everything that really matters to them. Reviewed by Melanie Smith.
THE SILENT GIFT by Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelly (Historical Fiction)
The decade of the ’30s was a time of enormous uncertainty…for the world, for America and in particular for one lonely, struggling mother and her disabled son. Their story is one of unyielding love and incredible sacrifices in the face of circumstances beyond belief.Reviewed by Maggie Harding.
THE COUNTRY HOUSE COURTSHIP: A Regency Inspirational Romance, by Linore Rose Burkard (Historical Romance)
Seventeen-year-old Beatrice Forsythe knows exactly what she wants and just how to get it. In the early 1800s, marrying a man of high society is a surefire way for a young woman to have a large house, servants, fancy dresses and fine food. Her sister Ariana did it, so there is no reason Beatrice can’t have it all too. True, Ariana and the Paragon, Mr. Mornay, married for love, but Beatrice is not convinced that element is necessary if the rest of the package is in place. Until a certain clergyman enters the picture. Reviewed by Susan Miura.
Christian Living
PRIMAL: A Quest for the Lost Soul of Christianity, by Mark Batterson (Christian Living)
What would your Christianity look like if it was stripped down to the simplest, rawest, purest faith possible? You would have more, not less. You would have the beginning of a new reformation --- in your generation, your church, your own soul. You would have primal Christianity. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
WHEN YOU NEED A MIRACLE: Stories to Give You Faith and Bring You Hope, by Ann Spangler (Devotional)
When life is challenging, each of you can benefit from a daily dose of hope and faith. That’s what this devotional will bring you --- stories of miracles and angels drawn directly from Scripture and from the lives of ordinary people today. Story after story will help you to remember that God is in control and that He still loves you. Reviewed by Margaret Oines.
A YEAR WITH GOD: Living Out the Spiritual Disciplines, edited by Richard J. Foster and Julia L. Roller (Devotional)
Many people are longing to find the footprint of God in their daily lives. This beautiful daily companion is comprised of 365 selections of scripture, commentary, meditations and daily exercises to help readers see how they can bring their entire life into a life with Immanuel --- a God who is with His people. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
THE REASON FOR GOD: Belief in an Age of Skepticism, by Timothy Keller (Christian Living)
Drawing insights from literature, philosophy and pop culture, say nothing of theology, Timothy Keller undergirds his persuasive, intellectually-based reasons for a belief in God, even as he draws upon his many valuable conversations with doubters he has encountered as a pastor in Manhattan. Reviewed by Evelyn Bence.
Marriage and Family Life
BECOMING YOUR SPOUSE’S BETTER HALF: Why Differences Make a Marriage Great, by Rick Johnson (Love & Marriage)
Having a successful marriage is not about finding the perfect person. It's not even about always getting along. It's about loving the imperfect person you married in an unselfish manner. In this witty and insightful book, Rick Johnson shows you how to go beyond merely tolerating your spouse's differences to using them to add spice and passion to your relationship. Reviewed by Michele Howe.
Author Talk
Julie Klassen
Julie Klassen is the award-winning author LADY OF MILKWEED MANOR, THE APOTHECARY'S DAUGHTER and the newly released THE SILENT GOVERNESS. In this interview, Klassen traces her love of British literature --- as well as her fascination with English governesses --- all the way back to a sixth-grade reading of JANE EYRE and explains how she found the perfect setting for her latest book in the countryside. She also compares and contrasts the heroines of her three novels and pinpoints what she hopes readers will take away from her work.
Special Contest and Feature
THE COURTEOUS CAD Contest
We are celebrating the release of THE COURTEOUS CAD --- a story of love and class in feudal England --- with a special contest. Ten readers will have the opportunity to each win a copy of the book, which is the third installment in Catherine Palmer’s Miss Pickworth series.
THE COURTEOUS CAD: Miss Pickworth, Book 3 by Catherine Palmer (Historical Romance)
On her tour of the English countryside, a chance encounter in the streets alerts Miss Prudence Watson to the inhumane working conditions at the worsted mill. She learns that the owner is William Sherbourne, a Royal Naval officer just returned from sea. Following in his wake is his reputation as a cad and a secret so ghastly he’ll do anything to protect it. Even worse, he’s handsome and charming and not at all the villain Prudence expected him to be.
- Click here to see the study guide for THE COURTEOUS CAD.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE COURTEOUS CAD.
- Click here to read Catherine Palmer’s bio.
THICKER THAN BLOOD Contest
We are celebrating the release of THICKER THAN BLOOD --- a mystery in which an antiquarian book buyer is forced to confront her past --- with a special contest. Ten readers will have the opportunity to each win a copy of the book, which is C.J. Darlington’s debut novel.
THICKER THAN BLOOD by C.J. Darlington (Fiction)
Christy Williams finally has her life on track. She’s putting her past behind her and working hard to build a career as an antiquarian book buyer. But things begin to unravel when a stolen Hemingway first edition is found in her possession, framing her for a crime she didn’t commit. With no one to turn to, she yearns for her estranged younger sister, May, whom she abandoned after their parents’ untimely deaths. Soon, Christy’s fleeing from her shattered dreams, her ex-boyfriend, and God. Could May’s Triple Cross Ranch be the safe haven she’s searching for? Will the sisters realize that each possesses what the other desperately needs before it’s too late?
- Click here to see the study guide for THICKER THAN BLOOD.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THICKER THAN BLOOD.
- Click here to read C.J. Darlington’s bio.
- Visit C.J. Darlington’s official website, www.CJDarlington.com.
Study Guides
THE CHOICE: Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1 by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Romance)
One moment Carrie Weaver was happily looking forward to running away with Lancaster Barnstormers pitcher Solomon Riehl --- plans that included leaving the Amish community where they grew up. The next, she was staring into a future as broken as her heart. Now, Carrie is faced with a choice. But will this opportunity be all she hoped? Or will this decision, this moment in time, change her life forever?
- Click here to read more about THE CHOICE.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE CHOICE.
- Click here to read Suzanne Woods Fisher’s bio.
THE SILENT GOVERNESS by Julie Klassen (Historical Romance)
Olivia Keene is fleeing her own secret. She never intended to overhear his. But now that she has, what is Lord Bradley to do with her? He cannot let her go, for were the truth to get out, he would lose everything --- his reputation, his inheritance, his very home. He gives Miss Keene little choice but to accept a post at Brightwell Court, where he can make certain she does not spread what she heard. Keeping an eye on the young woman as she cares for the children, he finds himself drawn to her, even as he struggles against the growing attraction. The clever Miss Keene is definitely hiding something.
- Click here to read more about THE SILENT GOVERNESS.
- Click here to read an excerpt from THE SILENT GOVERNESS.
- Click here to read an interview with Julie Klassen.
- Click here to read Julie Klassen’s bio.
THIRD TIME’S A CHARM: Sister-to-Sister Series, Book 3 by Virginia Smith (Romance)
Tori Sanderson has the professional opportunity of a lifetime. If she can prove she’s executive material, she’s in line for a big promotion. But there’s only room for one new account executive, and her co-worker has his eye on the job…and on Tori. How can she consider romance when she couldn’t hold on to the one man who was supposed to love her forever --- her own father? The time has come for answers, and Tori decides to search for the father who deserted her 12 years ago. Will she find the answers she craves? And will she ever be able to love again?
- Click here to read more about THIRD TIME’S A CHARM.
- Click here to read Virginia Smith’s bio.
SWINGING ON A STAR: Weddings by Bella, Book Two by Janice Thompson (Romance)
Bella Rossi’s life is nearing perfection. Not only does she have the perfect guy, but she’s also running a successful wedding-planning business and is about to plan its most ambitious wedding yet --- a Renaissance-themed fairy tale come true, complete with period costumes and foods, horse-drawn carriages, and even a castle. There’s only one hitch. The best man just happens to be Hollywood’s hottest and most eligible bachelor, and he’s showing an interest in Bella. Oh, and did we mention he’s staying at her house to avoid the paparazzi?
- Click here to read more about SWINGING ON A STAR.
- Click here to read Janice Thompson’s bio.
JENNA’S COWBOY: The Callahans of Texas, Book 1 by Sharon Gillenwater (Romance)
Jenna Callahan Colby thought she was content. A partner on her father’s successful ranch, she is surrounded by family and friends. But she never expected to see Nate Langley back in town --- the first guy she ever noticed, the one her father sent away all those years ago. And she never thought the attraction they felt would be as strong as ever.
- Click here to read more about JENNA’S COWBOY.
- Click here to read an excerpt from JENNA’S COWBOY.
- Click here to read Sharon Gillenwater’s bio.
Don’t Miss
THE BOOK OF GENESIS ILLUSTRATED written and illustrated by R. Crumb (Graphic Novel)
Envisioning the first book of the Bible like no one before him, R. Crumb, the legendary illustrator, reveals the story of Genesis in a profoundly honest and deeply moving way. Originally thinking he would do a takeoff of Adam and Eve, Crumb became so fascinated by the Bible’s language that he decided instead to do a literal interpretation using the text word for word in a version primarily assembled from the translations of Robert Alter and the King James Bible. Reviewed by John Hogan.
Click here to read the full newsletter.
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